Are you a parent or carer confused about where to sew that new badge on your child’s Cub uniform? Or maybe you’re wondering which badges matter most? You’re not alone!
Scouting is one of the most rewarding journeys for young people in the UK. After Beavers (ages 6–8), children move on to Cubs (ages 8–10½) where they learn new skills, build confidence, and embark on outdoor adventures. Along the way, they earn Cub badges—colourful patches that celebrate their achievements. As UK Chief Scout Dwayne Fields explained, scouting is about “championing the sense of belonging” — and Cub Badges play a big role in that sense of identity and community (The Guardian, 2024).
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Cub badges, including what they are, where they go on the uniform, and which ones stay with your child as they progress to Scouts.
What Are Cub Badges?
Cub badges are embroidered patches that Cubs wear on their uniform to show their progress, achievements, and membership. They tell a story of effort and exploration.
Types of Cub Badges:
- Activity Badges: These are earned by completing specific activities like swimming, cooking, cycling, or photography. There are over 30 to choose from!
- Challenge Awards: These are larger tasks that require teamwork, adventure, and leadership. They are a sign of a Cub’s commitment to the program.
- Core Badges: These are awarded for membership and progress, such as the Membership Badge, Moving-On Award, and the highly-coveted Chief Scout’s Silver Award.
Where Do Cub Badges Go on the Uniform?
This is one of the most common questions from parents. Getting the placement right is key to a neat and tidy uniform. Here’s a quick guide to help you.
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Membership & Group Badges → Left chest area
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District & County Badges → Right sleeve
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Activity Badges → Left sleeve
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Challenge Awards → Worn in specific rows on the uniform (usually right sleeve)
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Chief Scout’s Silver Award → Special placement as a recognition badge
Pro Tip: Your local scouting group will often provide a detailed badge placement diagram to help you get it perfect.
When you’re ready to attach the badges, avoid using fabric glue or iron-on hacks. For long-lasting results that can withstand camping and outdoor games, it’s always best to hand-sew with a strong thread or use a sewing machine.
Which Badges Transfer from Cubs to Scouts?
When your child moves up to Scouts (ages 10½–14), not all badges will transfer to their new uniform.
Badges that do transfer:
- Chief Scout’s Silver Award: This is the highest award a Cub can earn and it remains on the Scout uniform as a significant mark of achievement.
- Staged Activity Badges: Badges like Nights Away, Hikes Away, and Time on the Water continue throughout the Scouting journey, so their progress carries over.
Badges that do NOT transfer:
- Most Cub Activity Badges and Challenge Awards, as Scouts have their own, more advanced versions to work on.
Many families choose to sew the old Cub badges onto a camp blanket or keep them in a scrapbook as a wonderful collection of memories.
Cub Badges are a source of pride and motivation. In fact, one 10-year-old in Scotland made headlines after earning all 57 Cub Badges, so many that they wouldn’t fit on his uniform (Independent, 2024).
Common Questions About Cub Badges
- Q1: Do Cubs have to earn every badge?
- No. Cub badges are optional. Each Cub chooses the activities they enjoy most.
- Q2: Can parents help Cubs with badge work?
- Yes! Parents can encourage and support their Cub, but the achievement must be the Cub’s own.
- Q3: Can Cub badges be replaced if lost?
- Yes, replacement Cub badges can be ordered through your group or trusted suppliers.
Franklin Custom Badges: Your UK Supplier
At Franklin Custom Badges, we specialize in making high-quality Cub, Beaver, and Scout badges for youth organizations across the UK. We offer durable embroidery and woven options, fully customizable designs, and a quick turnaround on bulk orders.
If you’re looking for custom Cub badges in the UK, Franklin Custom Badges is here to help you design and create patches that your Cubs will wear with pride.
Contact Franklin Custom Badges today and let’s create something special for your Cubs!